Sharing medical knowledge and inspiring people to have a healthier lifestyle is one of the purposes for the McMinnville Community Health Fair held Saturday at Three Star Mall.
It is presented by IshaCare, a medical clinic located on Harrison Ferry Mountain. Isha is a volunteer-run, international nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating human potential.
Numerous medical specialists in internal and family medicine, children’s, women’s and senior care, orthopedics, rehabilitation, adult and children mental health, nutrition, fitness and physical therapy were all present. Several non-profit organizations, businesses and professionals provided information and literature to guests.
Organizer Dr. Kalpana Rajdev said, “They all want to share knowledge to inspire people to have the best health possible. We had several high-quality medical professionals who are eager to help others. One even traveled from Michigan to assist with the fair.”
The fair’s goal is to educate the public about what is available in the health community and to take control of their health, to exercise, get regular check-ups, take their medicines and strive for a healthy lifestyle.
Approximately 35 booths provided assistance and information to attendees ranging from medical tests and information to healthy eating tips. Several non-profit organizations participated, as well as health-related businesses and professionals. 
Georgia Career Institute instructor Robert Bowhall and other massage therapists literally had their hands full giving treatments in the mall’s center stage area.
According to Bowhall, massage will improve circulation, and help to relieve tension, regulate blood pressure and help decrease muscular tension and pain.
“Every year people look forward to coming and enjoying this experience,” said Rajdev. “We hope to get more seniors and people with health issues to join us.”
Healthy eating and dietary tips were provided by representatives from the UT/TSU Extension, and from Aish Venkataraman, who served carrot sprout salad samples. The simple dish made from carrots, sprouted mung beans, lemon juice, lentils, salt and pepper proved to be a tasty and healthy dish. 
Health Fair co-organizer Alison Murray said, “We are so pleased to be able to bring the resources in the community together, and the mall is a great location for the event. We are definitely hoping for number six next year.” 
“Seventy percent of the illnesses in the U.S., including Tennessee, are chronic ailments due to preventable factors such as nutrition, exercise and lifestyle choices,” said Dr. Rajdev. “Health screenings and awareness and education through the health fair brings a diverse array of services and providers together in one place, reducing costs, confusion and effort in seeking health solutions.”